Overview

Aquatic ecosystems are vital to maintaining global biodiversity, regulating climate, and supporting human populations through freshwater and marine resources. The BSc (Hons) Marine and Freshwater Science at Edith Cowan University provides a comprehensive education in aquatic ecology, environmental monitoring, and water resource management. Students explore biological and physical aquatic processes through hands-on laboratory exercises and field-based investigation across varied coastal and inland water environments. The curriculum balances ecological theory with practical conservation strategies, focusing on resource management, habitat restoration, and environmental impact assessment. Supported by university research strength in coastal and aquatic sciences, the program develops strong investigative and analytical capabilities. This degree is ideally suited for environmentally minded individuals seeking to gain practical scientific skills and protect essential aquatic ecosystems.

What You'll Learn

Marine and freshwater aquatic ecology, biodiversity, and ecosystem dynamics

Chemical oceanography, hydrology, and water quality assessment methodologies

Aquatic organism physiology, taxonomy, and estuarine biology principles

Ecosystem management, habitat restoration, and coastal conservation strategies

Geographical information systems (GIS), spatial analysis, and environmental mapping

Field sampling techniques, aquatic research design, and environmental impact assessment

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program gain an in-depth understanding of aquatic systems, ranging from inland freshwater catchments to coastal and open-ocean environments. Students develop the capacity to critically analyze environmental data, assess human impacts on water bodies, and design sustainable management and restoration frameworks. Through extensive practical field trips and laboratory training, learners cultivate strong hands-on skills in water quality testing, species identification, and spatial mapping tools. Furthermore, the curriculum enables participants to specialize in areas such as marine conservation or freshwater resource management, equipping them to confidently apply scientific competencies to real-world environmental challenges.